Life and diary of Lieut. Col. J. Blackader

494 LIFE Of COL. BLACKABER. CHAP. XX.
As to the gift of preaching, I look upon that to be but
a part of his qualifications. We ought to consider his
conduct and conversation also. For a minister may
preach like Paul himself, and by his conduct destroy
more than he builds up. It was asked, that I should
explain myself, if I had any insinuations; that the
minister they were seeking was not such a man. I
said I had no insinuations, only I thought we should
be very cautious and wary to choose such a man as I
had described.
(1718,) January 14. Hearing sermon on the occa-
sion of moderating a call for our minister. I came to
church with a peaceable, calm temper, to go along
with the call, though I have been passive all the
while. I complained, however, that I had but little
opportunity of being acquainted with Mr. M. I had
heard him preach, but knew little either as to his
ministerial or prudential qualifications, to say whether
he be fit for this place or not; and the town of Stir-
ling know as little. In a matter of this sort, every
man should be fully persuaded in his own mind, to
give his vote with knowledge, understanding, and
judgment. However he got a very harmonious and
unanimous eall. I thought it better to shew the
meekness of a Christian temper, and signed the call
with the Session. I hope it is a good choice, though
rashly gone into by many ; and I heartly pray God,
he may prove a blessing to this place, and to myself
in particular. Being appointed by the Session, I
waited on the Presbytery to desire their concurrence.
I said nothing to them about my own opinion. I did
not think it proper, being there as the mouth of the
Session.